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EIAST confirmed UAE engineers and scientists at the Dubai earth observation station were able to stabilize DubaiSat-1 in its 680km orbit at 3:30am local time after the satellite completed two successful orbits of the earth. The team has also remotely deployed the satellite's solar panels, which will power DubaiSat-1 for the next five years.
His Excellency Ahmed Al Mansoori, Director General of EIAST, said:
"With the blessing of Allah, the launch process was completely successful, and DubaiSat-1 is now carrying the UAE's flag into space. DubaiSat-1 is undoubtedly a sterling addition to the UAE's strategic accomplishments and what we have achieved so far can be attributed to the hard work and dedication of our national engineers and scientists."
"While the moon landing was a huge leap for humanity, DubaiSat-1 is a huge leap for the UAE's science and technology initiatives, and for our nation's aspirations," Al Mansoori added.
DubaiSat-1 was launched into space from the launch pad/base in Baikonour in Kazakhstan under the supervision of UAE engineers and scientists, who are responsible for more than a third of the project's implementation. Observers and analysts described the satellite's launch, a significant achievement for the UAE, as a product of the UAE's visionary leadership and efforts in enhancing knowledge and technological development, and embracing the latest achievements to position the UAE as the regional hub of the knowledge economy.
The launch of DubaiSat-1 will pave the way for additional space projects that highlight the UAE's thought leadership in space technology research. The Wednesday launch marks the first time the UAE flag, emblazoned on a panel of the satellite, is in outer space.
"DubaiSat-1 is a stepping stone in the UAE's attempt to create a sound infrastructure that enables the collection of space and earth observation data to power the comprehensive development of our nation," Mr. Al Mansoori said. "The satellite highlights the commitment of EIAST to create a knowledge-based economy by leveraging advances in satellite technology. EIAST will play an instrumental role in promoting the culture of advanced scientific research and technology innovation in Dubai and the UAE, and in creating an internationally competitive base for human skills development."
The launch of DubaiSat-1 consists of two segments: space and ground. The space segment comprises the development, design and manufacture of satellite equipment and components of the measurement and imaging.The ground segment includes the mission control station, image receiving and processing station, antenna and RF subsystem. Images from DubaiSat-1 can be used for a variety of applications from urban development, scientific research, telecommunications, transportation to civil engineering & constructions, mapping and GIS.
The Emirates Institution for Advanced Science & Technology will organise a press conference for the DubaiSat-1 team to share the details of the launch process following their return to Dubai. The press conference will be held at 11am on August 4, 2009.
Posted by Rima Ali Al Mashni
